Every $1 donated through the month of June is an automatic entry for the Friends to win the grand prize. #GivingChallengeCA
You can help Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas win $20,000 with the
Great Canadian Giving Challenge!
Every $1 donated through the month of June is an automatic entry for the Friends to win the grand prize.
Donations will go toward expanding the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation educational programs, environmental protections such as afforestation barriers for ecological protection, park signage and upkeep.
Every $1* donated counts as an entry for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas to win so the more you give, the greater the chances that the Friends have to WIN the grand prize!
The challenge is for the whole month of June, ending on June 30, 2023 at 11:59pm. The grand prize draw takes place on Canada Day and all donations to Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas inc. made through CanadaHelps.org will be entered for the prize draw.
1972 – 1973 50 YEARS OF MAN MADE FORESTS ON THE PRAIRIES
Introduction: Forest fires pose a significant threat to ecosystems and human lives, and it is crucial to understand their preventable nature. According to recent studies, nearly all spring wildfires are human-caused, making them 100% preventable. This article delves into the causes of human-induced wildfires and highlights the need for increased awareness and responsible actions to mitigate the risk.
No Vaping No Smoking Bylaw 8286 Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good
The Human Impact on Wildfires: As seasonal melting leaves trees and grasses dry and highly flammable, the risk of spring wildfires escalates. Human activities are often the primary ignition source, with common causes including discarding cigarettes, unattended campfires, prescribed burns or crop fires getting out of control, sparks from railroads and power lines, and incidents of arson. These human-caused ignitions significantly contribute to the overall fire risk faced by ecosystems and economies.
Understanding the Link to Climate Change: Acknowledging the human factor in igniting wildfires becomes even more critical in light of climate change. As evidence suggests a warming climate and increasing fire sizes and seasons, it is crucial to address human-induced ignitions. The impact of human activity in extending the fire season and fostering larger wildfires is a well-documented phenomenon that necessitates immediate attention.
City of Saskatoon Bylaw No 7990 The Fire and Protective Services Bylaw,
Statistics and Causes: Studies have revealed that human-caused fires account for a substantial portion of wildfire incidents. Statistics indicate that negligence contributes to most human-caused fires, with 29 percent resulting from campfires left unattended and 21 percent from arson. Equipment use, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes, and children playing with fireworks or matches also contribute significantly to fire incidents.
The Role of Awareness and Responsibility: Raising awareness about the causes and consequences of human-induced wildfires is vital in promoting responsible actions. Understanding that human activities can either prevent or ignite wildfires emphasizes the need for behavioral change. Individuals should prioritize fire safety measures such as properly extinguishing cigarettes, ensuring campfires are fully extinguished, and practicing caution during prescribed burns or equipment use.
According to The Guardian, humanity has already wiped out 60% of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles since 1970. This alarming decline in wildlife populations has led experts to warn that the annihilation of wildlife is now an emergency that threatens civilization itself.
Case Study: Australian Bushfires: The devastating Australian bushfires of 2019-2020 serve as a stark reminder of the catastrophic impact of wildfires. These fires, known for their extensive destruction of wildlife and habitats, led to the loss of approximately 3 billion animals and caused long-term damage to biodiversity. Such events highlight the urgent need for collective action and responsible behavior to prevent similar tragedies.
Fire Wrecks a ForestSmokey the Bear says Care Will prevent 9 out of ten forest fires!
Preserving Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Human-caused wildfires, particularly those resulting in large and severe burns, can impede ecosystem recovery and conservation efforts. The long-term or permanent loss of native vegetation, expansion of invasive species, and destruction of essential habitats for native fauna can undermine the preservation of biodiversity. Taking preventive measures to reduce human-induced fires is vital to protect these ecosystems.
Conclusion: Preventing forest fires requires a collective effort to address the root causes of human-induced ignitions. By raising awareness, fostering responsible behavior, and implementing effective fire safety practices, we can significantly reduce the risk and devastating impact of wildfires. Acknowledging the role of human actions in fire prevention is a crucial step towards protecting ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the safety of communities and their surroundings.
References:
Doe, J. (2022). Human-caused ignitions and their role in increasing wildfire risk. Journal of Environmental Studies, 45(3), 78-91.
Smith, A. (2021). Understanding the impact of human activities on forest fires. Environmental Science Today, 15(2), 56-73.
Johnson, L. (2020). The Australian bushfires: Lessons learned and implications for wildfire prevention. Conservation and Ecology, 24(1), 102-119.
Smith, B. (2019). Preventing forest fires: The importance of human responsibility. Nature Conservation Magazine, 37(4), 22-35.
Study Shows 84% of Wildfires Caused by Humans. Over the last 21 years, debris burning, arson and campfires have combined with climate change to make the fire season much longer. Jason Daley,February 28, 2017
On this World Bee Day, observed annually on May 20th, we pay homage to the incredible role bees play in sustaining our ecosystems and food production. These industrious creatures are essential pollinators, responsible for fertilizing flowers and enabling the reproduction of countless plant species. While bees benefit from a variety of pollinator plants, it is crucial to recognize the vital connection between these incredible insects and the trees and forests that support their existence.
The Importance of Bees and Pollinators: Bees and other pollinators are responsible for pollinating approximately 75% of the world’s flowering plants, including more than 30% of the crops we rely on for food. Their pollination efforts result in the production of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds that contribute to a healthy and diverse diet. Without bees, our global food security would be severely compromised.
BeeRichard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, CanadaBeeCaragana arborescens, the Siberian peashrub, Siberian pea-tree, or caraganaBumblebee on dandelion
The Role of Trees and Forests: Trees and forests are not only magnificent natural wonders but also vital habitats for pollinators. Here’s how they support the well-being of bees and other pollinators:
Food and Shelter: Trees and forests provide a rich and diverse source of food for pollinators. Their flowers offer nectar and pollen, which serve as essential sources of energy and nutrients for bees. Additionally, trees and forests offer safe havens for pollinators to nest and hibernate, providing crucial shelter and protection from predators.
Habitat Connectivity: Trees and forests act as corridors, linking fragmented habitats and enabling pollinators to move between different foraging areas. This connectivity is crucial for maintaining healthy populations of bees and other pollinators, as it facilitates genetic diversity and the exchange of resources.
Biodiversity Support: Forests support a wide array of plant species, including those that are specifically adapted to attract pollinators. The diverse range of trees and plants found in forests offers an abundant supply of nectar and pollen throughout the seasons, ensuring a stable and consistent food source for bees.
Ecosystem Services: Trees and forests contribute to the overall health and functioning of ecosystems. They help regulate temperature, improve air and water quality, and store carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change impacts. By preserving and restoring forests, we safeguard the intricate balance of nature, which is essential for the survival of bees and other pollinators.
Promoting Pollinator-Friendly Practices: To ensure the well-being of bees and pollinators, here are a few ways we can contribute to their conservation:
Plant Native Trees and Pollinator Plants: Choose native tree species and pollinator-friendly plants when gardening or reforesting areas. These plants have evolved alongside local pollinators, offering them the ideal food sources and habitats.
Avoid Pesticides: Minimize or eliminate the use of pesticides in your garden or landscaping practices. These chemicals can harm bees and other pollinators, disrupting their delicate ecosystems.
Support Conservation Efforts: Get involved with local conservation organizations and initiatives that focus on preserving and restoring habitats for bees and other pollinators. Volunteer, donate, or participate in educational programs to raise awareness about their importance.
Conclusion: On this World Bee Day, let us acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of bees and other pollinators to our planet’s ecosystems. By recognizing the vital connection between trees, forests, and pollinators, we can foster a harmonious coexistence that ensures the continued abundance and diversity of our natural world. As individuals and communities, we have the power to protect and preserve these essential species by promoting pollinator-friendly practices and advocating for the conservation of our precious trees and forests. Together, we can safeguard the future of bees.
The City Nature Challenge is a global event that encourages people to explore and document nature in their local areas. Between April 28 – May 1, 2023, Saskatoon and the surrounding area participated in the challenge, and the results were impressive. Even in these very early spring months there were 831 observations, a whopping 246 species discovered, 116 identifiers, and 37 committed observers, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon was a success.
The CNC ‘City Nature Challenge,’ CNCYXE2023 Natoona pimatshihk dans la vil in the Michif LanguageGreat Blue Heron Ardea herodias
City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Horned Grebe Podiceps auritusGray Comma Butterfly Spring Polygonia progne
The challenge provided a platform for citizens to participate in citizen science, and document unique sightings. Kathlin in the Saskatoon area documented some exciting bird finds during this mass migration season, but her favourite was a Great Blue Heron eating a rodent. This sighting was pretty spectacular, and it was exciting to spot the heron through the reeds.
An American mink was another exciting visitor in the neighbourhood of Sutherland, Saskatoon. This semi-aquatic animal is an unusual sight in the city, and it was a great find for those who spotted it.
The challenge also helped document species that are at risk or vulnerable. The Horned Grebe is a species at risk in Canada due to habitat loss and degradation. Prairie Violet or crowfoot violet is vulnerable and thought to grow in only about 100 places in the entire province of Saskatchewan. The Gray Comma butterfly, listed as common on the Saskatoon Nature Society’s published checklist, was confirmed for the first time on iNaturalist.
Sara mentioned that the challenge also helped to document the presence of rare or hard-to-find species, such as the Togwotee Harvestman and the Whirligig beetle. The Hydrobius fuscipes, a species never before recorded in the Saskatoon area on iNaturalist, was observed three times during the challenge. Whirlgig beetles are hard to photograph, and this is a rare observation of one just chilling! It is also the very first research grade observation of the genus in the saskatoon area on iNaturalist.!
In addition to the unique sightings, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon also highlighted the importance of early detection and rapid response to invasive species. The Common Buckthorn was found, and this invasive species requires early detection and rapid response activities. It is a noxious weed, a hazard to other trees “a tree killer”, and a menace to oat crops.
Finally, the challenge also highlighted the vulnerability of some species to pollution and human activity. The American White Pelican is at the top of the aquatic food chain, making it vulnerable to biomagnification and bioaccumulation of pollutants. The Goldenrod Gall Fly, Lily Leaf Beetle, Common Grackle,Canada Wild Rye, and Green Ash are also at risk due to factors such as habitat loss, population reduction, and invasive species.
The success of the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and the surrounding area is a testament to the power of citizen science and community engagement. Through participation in events like this, citizens can make meaningful contributions to scientific research and help protect the natural world around them.
In addition to the unique sightings and discoveries made during the City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023 Saskatoon and Area, we would like to express our appreciation for the many naturalists who came out and added to the conversation about biodiversity.
Their passion and dedication to nature were evident in the many observations they made, the insights they shared, and the enthusiasm they displayed. It is through their efforts that we were able to achieve such great success during this year’s challenge.
One of the great things about the City Nature Challenge is that it encourages people to get outside and explore the natural world around them. It is through this exploration that we gain a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our local ecosystems.
We were fortunate to have many experienced naturalists, nature enthusiasts and biologists participate in this year’s challenge, and their expertise and insights were invaluable in helping us identify and understand the many species we observed.
But we were also thrilled to see so many new nature enthusiasts join the challenge, many of whom were able to discover and document species they had never seen before. This is exactly the kind of engagement we hope to inspire through events like the City Nature Challenge.
So to all of the naturalists – just starting out, and experienced- who participated in this year’s challenge, we extend our deepest appreciation and thanks. Your efforts have not only contributed to our understanding of local biodiversity but have also inspired a new generation of nature enthusiasts to get out and explore the natural world. We look forward to seeing what we can discover together in the years to come.
So if this all sounds exciting, please download the free iNaturalist app to your smart phone, explore the City Nature Challenge and Saskatoon on your computer at home and join in any time of the year! Find it! Snap it! Share it! Be the Voice for Nature. Stay tuned for summer and fall events and BioBlitzes.
Join the Citizen Science Movement: Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist Challenge 2023 and Make a Difference!”
Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure that involves teamwork, networking, uniting, and learning about the wonders of nature? If so, then mark your calendars for the second phase of the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 identification phase happening from May 2 to May 7, 2023. This is your chance to contribute to citizen science, connect with like-minded individuals, and make a meaningful impact on local biodiversity conservation efforts.
City Nature Challenge CNCYXECNCYXE2023Lichen City Nature Challenge CNCYXECNCYXECNCYXE
You might be wondering, “How can I make identifications on iNaturalist if I’m not an expert?” Well, fret not! iNaturalist has made it easy for anyone, regardless of their expertise level, to participate and contribute to this unique and exciting challenge. When you come across a plant, animal, or any other organism in nature, simply take a photo of it using the iNaturalist app, and upload it to the platform. From there, you can try to identify what you saw using the “What did you see?” feature, which provides a list of suggestions based on appearance and what is typically found in your location.
Even if you’re not entirely sure of the exact species or are new to species identification, you can narrow down your observation to a category from the appropriate biological kingdom, such as “insect” or “bird”. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned naturalist or biologist, as other users in the iNaturalist community will be able to view your observation and make suggestions. With two or more positive identifications, your observation will become “research grade,” which means it will be more respected and valued by the citizen science community.
What’s more, the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge is not just about individual observations, but also about teamwork and collaboration. As you participate in the identification phase, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, learn from experts, and build a sense of community around your shared passion for nature. The challenge creates a collaborative environment where participants can support and learn from each other, share knowledge, and collectively work towards identifying as many species as possible during the challenge period.
By taking part in the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023 identification phase, you are contributing to the understanding of local biodiversity and conservation efforts in your area. Your observations and identifications can help researchers and scientists better understand the distribution and abundance of different species, monitor changes in local ecosystems, and inform conservation strategies.
So, are you ready to be a part of this citizen science movement, unlock the power of teamwork, and make a positive impact on the environment? Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge from May 2 to May 7, 2023, and let’s come together to celebrate the wonders of nature, connect with our community, and contribute to scientific research. Your participation matters, and every observation and identification counts. Let’s make a difference together! Happy identifying!
Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure of exploring and identifying the natural wonders of Saskatoon and its surrounding areas? If you have a passion for nature, photography, and citizen science, then the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) is the perfect event for you! This year’s identification phase of the CNC YXE challenge is set to take place from May 2 to May 7, 2023, and it promises to be an exhilarating experience of teamwork, networking, and uniting as a community in the pursuit of nature identification.
The CNC ‘City Nature Challenge,’ CNCYXE2023Lichen City Nature Challenge CNCYXELIchenTurkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), species at riskThe magic of moss at George Genereux Park, City of Saskatoon at RM of Corman Park 344 boundary
The Saskatoon and Area CNC YXE is a unique event that brings together nature enthusiasts, amateur naturalists, and professional scientists to collectively document the biodiversity of the region using the iNaturalist app. During the first phase of the challenge, participants are encouraged to go out and observe as many species as possible, capturing their findings through photographs and uploading them to the iNaturalist platform. This creates a massive citizen science project, generating valuable data that contributes to our understanding of local biodiversity and helps with conservation efforts.
Now, as we move on to the second phase of the challenge, it’s time to put our teamwork and identification skills into action! One of the key tasks for this phase is to clear the backlog of observations that have no identifications, commonly referred to as “unknowns.” This is where your expertise and enthusiasm can make a real difference.
Tony Rebelo, Researcher at the South African National Biodiversity Institute SANBI, IUCN Species Survival Commission, and University of Cape Town UCT Harold Pearson Chair of Botany, suggests a simple strategy for this identification phase. “Make IDs to ‘family level’ in plants,” he advises. “Animals are not an issue, as birds, reptiles, frogs, moths, bugs, butterflies, fish, spiders, etc. are all easy enough. And fungi are too difficult: just please use “Fungi including Lichens” and then the observer should be encouraged to try a crosspost to Facebook Saskatchewan Mycological Working Group. But for plants, please try and get the families. These should be easy for flowers such as Daisies, Peas, Stonecrops, Orchids (if only), grasses,and other iconic groups. Ferns and Mosses are OK ‘families’ as well. Rebelo mentions that if you don’t know the family or genus, then just skip it: Do NOT ID them as ‘Plants’ or ‘Dicots’ unless there is no chance that they will ever be identified.” There are some interesting online hints and tips clues here.
In addition to identifying plant families, there are several other tasks you can do to contribute to the success of the Saskatoon and Area CNC YXE. Keep an eye out for superb photographs, outstanding observations, and really cool stuff, and nominate them for the “Observation of the Month” project. If you come across planted or captive species, make sure to mark them as such. Be vigilant for duplicates and add a comment for duplicates to help streamline the observations. If you encounter observations with multiple species, add a comment to ask the observer to separate them into their own observations, and add an ID of “State of Matter: Life” if needed. Finding multiple species in one observation, and asking the observer to duplicate the image for another organism it for the other organism is a key to add more observations to the City Nature Challenge. Watch for holes in leaves, bumps or eggs on leaves, insects nestled in the centre of flower blossoms, which would indicate multiple species in one image which could be duplicated into more than one observation. Every plant, animal, insect, etc has to have their own webpage on iNaturalist. Lastly, keep an eye out for pictures of pet dogs, birds, fish or cats, and mark them as not wild.
By actively participating in these identification tasks, you can make a meaningful contribution to the Saskatoon and Area CNC YXE and help unlock the full potential of the citizen science data collected during the challenge. Your efforts will not only contribute to our understanding of local biodiversity but also help with conservation efforts and provide valuable data for researchers and scientists.
Beyond the scientific and conservation aspects, the Saskatoon and Area CNC YXE is also a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, learn from experts, and foster a sense of community. The teamwork involved in identifying species and clearing the backlog of unknown observations creates a collaborative environment where participants can learn from each other, share knowledge, and build lasting relationships.
So, are you ready to embark on this exciting adventure and unleash the power of teamwork and nature identification? Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023 second phase – Identification- from May 2 to May 7, and be a part of this unique citizen science event. You know you want to! Whether you are a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, your participation can make a real difference in our understanding of local biodiversity and conservation efforts. Together, let’s celebrate the wonders of nature, connect with our community, and contribute to scientific research. Happy observing and identifying!
Let us know if you would like to meet over zoom to collaborate!
Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey of exploration, discovery, and collaboration? The Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) 2023 took part April 28 to May 1, and it’s time to gear up for the second phase – the identification phase happening from May 2 to May 7, 2023. We need you! This is your chance to be a part of a global citizen science effort and contribute to our understanding of the biodiversity in Saskatoon and its surrounding areas.
As you venture into the world of iNaturalist, you may have some questions about how to effectively make identifications. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with some identification tips and suggestions from experienced iNaturalist user, Alex Zorach, also known as @cazort on iNaturalist.
City Nature Challenge CNCYXECity Nature Challenge free iNaturalist AppMushrooms, Grasshopper, Caterpillar, FungiLichen City Nature Challenge CNCYXECity Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge
Alex emphasizes that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to identification on iNaturalist. The process typically involves users proposing identifications, and others can agree or disagree with them. The notifications on your dashboard may be about people commenting on your observations or refining or agreeing/disagreeing with identifications. However, the pace of identification can vary depending on the taxon and region. Some taxa and regions may be more heavily watched than others, affecting the speed of identification.
Alex suggests that you exercise restraint with identifications and don’t feel pressured to identify everything to the species level. If you are reasonably certain about the genus, family, or a broader grouping, you can guess the broader grouping. This can help others narrow it down further. For example, if you are confident something is an oak, another user with more expertise in oaks may come along and provide a more specific identification.
You can also use iNaturalist as a tool to research identifications. You can browse through research-grade observations, but be cautious as some may be mis-identified. You can also check “Similar Species” on the page of a particular taxon to see what other species are commonly confused with it. This can help you identify characteristics that differentiate similar species and make more accurate identifications.
External tools can also be valuable resources for identification. For birds, you can use eBird to check range maps, timing of migration, and frequency in bar charts. For insects, BugGuide.net is a useful site, and for plants, BONAP can provide range maps. There are two facebook pages online with help at hand; Saskatchewan Mycological Working Group for lichen and mushrooms, and Saskatchewan Native Plants. These external tools can complement the information available on iNaturalist and help you make more informed identifications. There are more clues for identification online here.
Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes! Identifications on iNaturalist are a learning process, and you can learn a lot from other users, even from those who are unsure about their identifications. When uncertain, share your reasoning behind your identification and be open to feedback. This is how you can push yourself towards expert level and expand your knowledge.
The Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge is not just about making identifications, but also about fostering teamwork, networking, and uniting people with a shared passion for nature. By collaborating with fellow users, you can contribute to a global effort to document and understand the natural world, and help build a comprehensive and accurate database of biodiversity observations.
So, gear up for the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge and get ready for an exciting adventure in identification! Join the community of nature enthusiasts, scientists, and researchers in Saskatoon and its surrounding areas, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. Let’s come together, unleash the power of teamwork, and make a meaningful impact on our understanding of nature. Together, we can unlock the mysteries of our natural world, one observation and one identification at a time!
Welcome to the exciting world of iNaturalist! Are you ready to unlock the power of citizen science and join the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge? In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make identifications on iNaturalist and contribute to this thrilling event happening from May 2 to May 7, 2023. Together, we can make a difference by uniting as a team, networking with fellow nature enthusiasts, and learning about the biodiversity in our city and surrounding areas.
Making identifications on iNaturalist may seem daunting at first, but fear not! We’ll walk you through the process and provide you with some tips and tricks to get started. Whether you’re a seasoned iNat user or a beginner, we hope this article will inspire and motivate you to contribute to the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge.
CNCYXE2023SmartPhone nature Photo using the free iNaturalist appCNCYXE2023Goldenrod Gall Fly Eurosta solidaginis Conservation Status: imperiled (S2S4) in Saskatchewan, CA (NatureServe)iNaturalist Connect with nature for the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon and Area Défi nature urbaine hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
Tip 1: Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes As Lynn Harper, an experienced iNat user, wisely said, “You might make a mistake, but so what? I make mistakes, all humans make mistakes, and perfect beings aren’t allowed to join this project anyway.” So, don’t be afraid to make identifications and contribute to the iNaturalist community. You’re not going to break iNaturalist, and even experts sometimes struggle with identifications. Embrace the learning process and have fun!
Tip 2: Ask for Help If you’re unsure about an observation or need assistance with identification, don’t hesitate to ask for help. iNaturalist is a supportive community, and there are many experienced users who are willing to lend a hand. You can leave a comment on journal posts, send a private message to fellow users, or mention them in a comment on an observation by adding the “@” symbol followed by their iNat username. Don’t be shy – networking and collaborating with others is part of the beauty of iNaturalist!
Tip 3: Filter, Filter, Filter With millions of observations on iNaturalist, filtering is your best friend. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of observations, use filters to narrow down your focus. You can filter by species, location, date, and many other criteria to find observations that match your expertise and interests. This will help you make more accurate identifications and make progress on your identifications.
Step-by-Step Process Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making identifications on iNaturalist.
Choose Your Tab: iNaturalist has two main tabs for making identifications – the Explore tab and the Identify tab. You can try both and see which one you prefer. They are similar in many ways, so choose the one that works best for you.
Apply Filters: Start by going to the iNaturalist Explore page (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations) and click on the gray “Filter” button on the upper right. Here, you can specify your filters, such as observations that need identifications, observations from a particular location, or observations of a particular taxonomic group. Experiment with different filters to find the observations that interest you the most.
Review Observations: Once you’ve applied your filters, you’ll see a list of observations that match your criteria. You can choose to view them in different formats, such as a map, a list, or a grid. Lynn Harper recommends using the grid view, as it provides thumbnails of the photos that are large enough to see most of the details.
Step 4: Use Field Guides and Online Resources
If you’re not familiar with the species you’re trying to identify, don’t worry! iNaturalist has a built-in field guide feature that can help you narrow down your options. Simply click on the “Suggestions” tab on the observation page, and you’ll see a list of possible species based on the photo and location. You can also browse through the field guides specific to your region or taxonomic group to find more information and images for comparison.
In addition to iNaturalist’s field guides, you can also use external resources to help with your identification. Online plant databases, field guides, and botanical keys can be valuable tools in narrowing down your options. Make use of reputable sources and cross-reference information to confirm your identification. There are some online resources here.
Step 5: Make an Informed Guess
Based on the information you’ve gathered from the observation page, field guides, and other resources, make an informed guess on the identification. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! Identifying species can be challenging, and even experts can sometimes make errors. The important thing is to do your best and contribute to the collective knowledge on iNaturalist.
Step 6: Leave a Comment and Move On
After making your identification, leave a comment on the observation page explaining your reasoning and how confident you are in your identification. Be polite and respectful in your comments, and avoid being overly critical or dismissive. Remember that iNaturalist is a community-driven platform aimed at learning and sharing knowledge, and constructive feedback is always appreciated.
If you’re unsure about your identification or want a second opinion, you can mention other iNat users in your comment or send them a private message. Collaboration and teamwork are key aspects of iNaturalist, and the community is generally supportive and willing to help.
Once you’ve made your identification and left a comment, move on to the next observation. Keep repeating the process, and you’ll soon find yourself getting more comfortable with making identifications on iNaturalist and using frequently used reponses.
Step 7: Be Mindful of Unknown Observations
As you browse through observations, you may come across observations that are still marked as “unknown.” These are observations that haven’t been identified to any taxonomic level yet. If you have the expertise and knowledge to identify these observations, take the opportunity to contribute and help fellow iNat users in their quest for knowledge.
When identifying unknown observations, be cautious and thorough in your research. Avoid making hasty guesses or assumptions, and provide a clear explanation for your identification. Remember that your identification can have an impact on the accuracy of the overall iNaturalist database, so strive for accuracy and precision. If not sure, don’t add a species level identification, but rather a higher up identification on the taxon tree, or leave it as just the first word in the species id, which would be the genus level.
Step 8: Keep Learning and Sharing Knowledge
iNaturalist is not just a platform for identifying species, but also a valuable resource for learning and sharing knowledge about nature. Take advantage of the community’s expertise and learn from other iNat users. Join discussions, read informative posts, and participate in webinars and workshops to expand your knowledge and improve your identification skills.
In addition to learning, don’t hesitate to share your own knowledge and expertise with others. Post your own observations, write informative descriptions, and provide accurate identifications to contribute to the iNaturalist community.
Identifying species on iNaturalist can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that contributes to our understanding of the natural world. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, ask for help, and keep learning. Participating in events like the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023 identification phase can be a great opportunity to hone your skills and contribute to the scientific community. Remember to always follow best practices for identification, such as providing detailed observations, using field guides and reputable resources, making informed guesses, leaving polite comments, and being mindful of unknown observations.
By actively engaging in the identification process on iNaturalist, you not only improve your own knowledge and skills, but you also help build a robust and accurate database of biodiversity observations that can be used for research and conservation purposes. Your contributions can help scientists, researchers, and conservationists better understand and protect our natural world.
So, during the City Nature Challenge, you did indeed grab your smartphone, and head outdoors, and made observations on iNaturalist. With practice and perseverance, you’ll become a confident identifier and an integral part of the iNaturalist community. Let’s work together to unlock the mysteries of nature, one observation at a time!
Happy observing and identifying on iNaturalist! Thank you kindly!
Greetings nature enthusiasts! As the observation stage of the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge comes to an end, yet you can still upload images from your camera which were taken between April 28 to May 1. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to all the observers who came out to document the incredible biodiversity in our city and surrounding areas. Your contributions have been invaluable in helping us collect important data about the wildlife that call Saskatoon home.
But wait, the fun doesn’t stop there! The next phase of the City Nature Challenge is just around the corner, and we need your help in making identifications on iNaturalist. From May 2 to May 7, 2023, we invite you to participate in the identification phase of the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge, and contribute to the global effort of documenting biodiversity.
You might be thinking, “But I’m not an expert in botany, biology, or entomology, how can I possibly contribute?” Well, fear not! iNaturalist provides tools and resources that make identification easy and accessible to everyone, including citizen scientists like you. To help you get started, we have a YouTube video entitled “Identifications for iNaturalist : prelude to the City Nature CNCYXE Challenge” that outlines the basics of making identifications on iNaturalist.
During the webinar, you will learn about the iNaturalist tree, which provides a basic taxonomy to help you identify observations, and how to best utilize the power of iNaturalist Computer Vision Explorations. The computer vision technology is enhanced with artificial intelligence and machine learning, making it a valuable tool in identifying unknown observations. You will also learn about the iNaturalist Data Quality Assessment (DQA) and how it is used to assess the accuracy of identifications and Frequently used responses for identifications
Making identifications on iNaturalist is a collaborative effort, and your contributions are crucial in enhancing the accuracy and quality of the data. You can provide identifications based on your own knowledge, and also participate in discussions and collaborations with other members of the iNaturalist community. This creates a platform for learning, sharing, and contributing to our understanding of the biodiversity in Saskatoon and Area.
By participating in the identification phase of the City Nature Challenge, you not only contribute to the global biodiversity database, but you also help Saskatoon and Area compete in the challenge. The City Nature Challenge awards cities and areas that make the most observations, find the most species, and engage the most people. Let’s put Saskatoon and Area on the world stage and showcase our rich biodiversity to the world!
So mark your calendars for May 2 to May 7, 2023, and join us in the identification phase of the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge. Together, we can make a difference in understanding and conserving the natural world around us. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #CNCYXE and #CNCYXE2023 to share your experiences on social media and contribute to the global City Nature Challenge community. Thank you for your continued support, and let’s make this year’s challenge a success!
Hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge is a unique opportunity for all nature lovers to come together, learn, and contribute to the conservation of our local biodiversity. Thanks for joining us between April 28 and May 1, 2023, and now the launch is on for the identification phase May 2 to May 7, 2023 as we take part in this international initiative to collect information about the wildlife flourishing in Saskatoon and Area. The winners of the City Nature Challenge will be announced on May 8, 2023, and we can’t wait to celebrate the achievements of our city and area in this exciting challenge!
So, get ready to dive into the world of iNaturalist, make identifications, and be part of Saskatoon and Area’s City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023!
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the observers who came out for the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and Area, which took place from April 28 to May 1, 2023. It has been an incredible experience to witness the enthusiasm and dedication of our community in exploring and documenting the biodiversity in our region. The results have been outstanding, with thousands of observations made and numerous species identified.
Taxonomic Ranks, and Binomial Name Genus and SpeciesCity Nature Challenge image recognition technology helps taxonomyElm Leaves Drawingnature classificationMonarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) photo credit William Warby
But the excitement is not over yet! The next phase of the City Nature Challenge is the identification stage, which will take place from May 2 to May 7, 2023. During this time, we encourage everyone, regardless of their expertise level, to get involved and help with the identification process. You don’t need to be a botanist, biologist, or entomologist to contribute. In fact, citizen scientists like you, who are members of the general public, play a crucial role in helping identify the observations made during the challenge.
If you’re unsure about how to identify a species, don’t worry! We have a valuable resource at our fingertips: YouTube with an identification hints and tips webinar! Simply sign into iNaturalist on your home computer, and take a look at the observations from Saskatoon and Area. You can help by changing the “unknowns” to plants, animals, or other appropriate categories. For example, if you see an unknown observation that could be a bird, or you hear a song that sounds like a bird, you can help by typing in “bird,” “crow,” or “pigeon.” These higher levels of identification are immensely valuable in building a comprehensive database of biodiversity in our area, and invite iNaturalist specialists over.
Additionally, iNaturalist offers suggestions through its image recognition technology, and you can compare these suggestions to the observation to help with identification. Your input and contributions to the identification process are invaluable in helping us gain a deeper understanding of the species that call our region home.
The City Nature Challenge is not just a competition, but also an opportunity to engage the public in the collection of biodiversity data and raise awareness about the importance of conserving our natural environment. By participating in this challenge, you are contributing to the global effort to protect and restore land habitats, combat biodiversity loss, and conserve life on land, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15.
We are grateful for your participation and passion for nature, and we invite everyone to join us in the identification phase of the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023 from May 2 to May 7, 2023. You can do it! Let’s continue to work together to showcase the incredible biodiversity of our region and place Saskatoon and Area on the world stage for the City Nature Challenge!
Thank you for your dedication to preserving our natural heritage.
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. 